Obesity in cats, the causes of the problem and how to solve it
Obesity in cats is a condition caused by poor nutrition and sedentary lifestyles. It is also associated with an increase in the number of fat cells or an increase in their size. The growth of fat cells is particularly noticeable when the pet is growing actively, but fullness even at an early age already signals a predisposition for obesity. As the pet grows older, its obesity is motivated by an increase in the size of the fat cells.
Factors that cause a petâs weight to increase to abnormal levels are as follows:
- Overeating;
- Hormonal imbalances;
- castration;
- Genetic predisposition;
- low physical activity.
The effect of castration on an animalâs body weight can be explained by its expenditure of less energy. Sex hormones that suppress appetite also contribute to weight gain. But the catâs owner can counteract the tendency toward obesity by controlling caloric intake and increasing physical activity.
Signs of obesity in cats
The clinical manifestations of obesity are determined by its degree and are expressed as:
- saggy abdomen;
- leisurely gait;
- fatty deposits on the sides;
- lethargy;
- indifference to the surrounding world;
- difficulty in jumping.
Methods to combat obesity in cats
Getting rid of the catâs obesity problem is achieved by reducing caloric foods and by increasing exercise. Exercise will burn excess calories in the catâs body, improve cardiovascular function and strengthen the muscles.